Vanathi Srinivasan, BJP MLA, has raised concerns over the Tamil Nadu government’s recent direct appointments at the Chief Secretariat, questioning whether this practice contradicts the principles of social justice. Her statement comes in response to the state government’s stance against direct appointments by the central government.Vanathi pointed out that the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister had criticized direct appointments by the central government, stating, “Direct recruitment is an assault on social justice. It deprives qualified Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and minority officers of opportunities at the higher levels.” This statement, she noted, underscores the CM’s concern about protecting opportunities for underrepresented communities in government services.
Allegations by Tamil Nadu Secretariat Association:
However, Vanathi Srinivasan has highlighted a contradiction in the Chief Ministerās actions, which have been brought to light by the Tamil Nadu Secretariat Association. According to a letter sent by the association’s President, Venkatesan, and Joint Secretary, Jeevan, there has been a continuous appointment of advisors across various government departments since the DMK assumed power.
Initially limited to a few departments, the appointment of advisors has now proliferated across nearly all sectors. The associationās letter alleges that these appointments are being made without adherence to any specific guidelines or regulations, including the proper determination of salaries, which they claim lacks transparency and structure.
Concerns Over Marginalization of TNPSC-Selected Officers:
The letter also raises concerns about the impact of these advisor appointments on the established government workforce. Tamil Nadu has a 69% reservation policy, and many officers have been selected through the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) and have served in various capacities over the years. The association argues that sidelining these experienced officers in favor of advisors undermines the merit and importance of those who have risen through the ranks within the state’s established systems.